A zoo has been forced to shut today after a burst water main.

The water supply at Drusillas near Alfriston was cut off due to two separate underground pipe failures.

The problem was first reported to the South East Water yesterday evening and engineers have been trying to fix the issue since. Thousands of homes across Eastbourne, Polegate and near Ripe have also been affected.

Read more: Zoo taken over for filming of ITV crime drama

A spokesman for Drusillas said the earliest it can expect a fix is early afternoon so bosses made the decision to close for the day.

He said: "If you had a booking for today, we will be in touch with you very soon, if we haven’t been already.

"We are so disappointed to not open today and are sorry to everyone who won’t be able to visit us as planned."

Water is now being returned to the mains system but it may take several hours for some properties to receive water flow again.

A spokesman for South East Water said: "For those who are still without water we are providing free bottled water at the Eastbourne Rugby Football Club in Park Avenue, Eastbourne.

"Once your water returns if it looks brown in colour, please don't worry as it is not harmful. This happens when small particles of iron within the mains are disturbed. Your water may also appear cloudy or white.

"If you fill a glass of water and it clears from the bottom upwards then this means your water is just a little more aerated than usual.

"Simply run the water from your cold kitchen tap until the water is clear. Thank you for your patience and understanding."